Low back pain is incredibly common, but for some, bouncing back is challenging. Chiropractor Dr. Mark Gutierrez of Gutierrez Chiropractic Inc. in Tustin, California, understands the discomfort and inconvenience of low back pain, and offers multiple effective treatment options.

If you’re tired of living with persistent pain and limited function, schedule a consultation today. You can book your one-on-one visit using the easy online scheduling tool, or with a simple phone call.

Everyone experiences occasional low back pain, often after a period of intense physical activity or a minor injury. When pain persists after a few days of self-care, however, it’s time to take action. Left untreated, low back pain can cause you to change the way you use your back, which can exacerbate your condition and cause even more damage.

Some of the more common causes of low back pain include:

• Traumatic injury
• Sports injury
• Improper lifting technique
• Skeletal irregularities
• Sciatica
• Compressed nerves
• Muscle strains or tears
• Bulging or herniated disc

Most low back pain occurs when something alters the normal alignment of your spine. Any excess pressure on the nerves in your back can lead to pain and impaired function.

Your symptoms may not be the same as those of a friend or family member who also suffers from low back pain. In fact, your symptoms might differ from one instance to the next, depending on the cause of discomfort. Low back pain can be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull. It might develop slowly over the course of a few days, or occur suddenly. Some men and women describe stabbing or shooting pain, while for others the sensation is a moderate but nagging ache. Pain that persists for more than a few months is classified as chronic pain.

A comprehensive diagnostic exam is the first step in designing your customized treatment plan. Dr. Gutierrez discusses your overall health, any recent changes, and your symptoms. He uses imaging and a basic neurological exam to learn more about the source and type of lower back pain. While pain medication can mask the symptoms of low back pain, true relief requires addressing the root cause. Lifestyle modifications can help, including weight loss, targeted stretching, posture improvements, and getting plenty of low-impact exercises. Many men and women benefit from spinal manipulation. Dr. Gutierrez uses both his hands and specialized chiropractic devices to correct spinal misalignment and restore optimal back function. Massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy, and other noninvasive treatments can go a long way toward reducing low back pain.

If you’re tired of shaping your days to accommodate low back pain, book a consultation with Dr. Gutierrez today, either online or by phone.